Susie Schaefer is the visionary Founder and CEO of Finish the Book Publishing, a company dedicated to guiding authors through the independent publishing process with a hands-on, relationship-driven approach. Joining her in this conversation is Ric Franzi, the accomplished host of The Critical Mass Business Talk Show, Orange County’s longest-running business talk show focused on engaging leaders and entrepreneurs in insightful discussions.
Ric Franzi (RF): Susie, what motivated you to launch Finish the Book Publishing?
Susie Schaefer (SS): I’ve always loved reading, and as a child, I would lose myself in fiction. That passion stayed with me through a 30+ year corporate career. A key moment came when I had the opportunity to learn independent publishing from an exceptional mentor. It was a leap, but it felt like my passion finally aligned with opportunity.
RF: So, you’re not a ghostwriter?
SS: Correct. I’m an author but not a ghostwriter, though I can connect clients to trusted ones if needed. One of my favorite services is Book Visioning – laying out the author’s story, brand, and audience to reverse-engineer their writing plan and create a manageable routine.
RF: I love that approach. It seems to simplify the process.
SS: Exactly. It’s a white-glove, relationship-based experience. I work closely with authors to polish their book and handle details like professional cover design and copyright pages. I also link them to vetted marketing and PR experts, saving them time and hassle.
RF: How do you ensure quality?
SS: I vet all professionals we collaborate with. Sadly, some authors come to me after disappointing first experiences. For those cases, we often create a second edition that better reflects their brand and vision.
RF: Did you feel isolated while building your business?
SS: Absolutely. Many entrepreneurs do, especially during lean times. The temptation to go back to a secure job is real, but I learned that fear – a low-vibration energy – was holding me back. Once I recognized that, I shifted my mindset, took action, and kept moving forward. Over time, resilience paid off.
RF: I can relate. The early years test your resolve.
SS: Yes. People think a 9-to-5 job is secure, but I feel more secure now as an entrepreneur. I control my direction, choose my clients, and adapt to market trends. It’s about pushing through those initial hurdles.
RF: How is AI impacting the publishing industry?
SS: AI is already influencing the industry in mixed ways. I advise against using AI to write entire books, as it can be detected and lacks genuine voice. However, AI can help with editing and refining content. True creativity and expression are irreplaceable.
RF: So true – writing needs to be personal.
SS: Exactly. That’s why I emphasize Book Visioning. It supports an author’s mission and story. Writing should come from the heart, not be forced. Mornings are ideal for writing, before the day’s distractions set in – that’s when your authentic voice shines.
I speak to so many people who have this dream of writing a book, but don’t even know where to start. They think it is something impossible. I want them to know that it is possible… in fact, the word impossible can be considered “I’m possible.”
RF: What’s next for Finish the Book Publishing?
SS: We’ll continue working with inspiring authors and exploring the growing link between spirituality and business. I believe storytelling will become more holistic, blending personal and professional narratives. Everyone has a story to tell, and now is the time to share it.
